7 Tips for Balancing Work and Play as a Digital Nomad
Think digital nomad life is all golden sunsets and café work sessions? The real adventure is figuring out how to juggle deadlines and day trips without dropping the ball.

When you picture the nomadic lifestyle, what do you see? Golden sunsets from a balcony in Bali? Answering emails while sipping a cappuccino at a Parisian café? Or maybe just the freedom to explore a new place after you’ve logged off for the day?
While all of those moments can be part of the story, the truth is that nomadic life isn’t an endless vacation. (I know, bummer, right?)
If you’re working remotely while living out of a suitcase, balancing adventure and routine is a skill you’ll need to master. The biggest misconception about being a digital nomad is that you’re always “living the dream.” It’s true that I’ve had some pretty incredible lunch breaks. But I’ve also spent plenty of days glued to my laptop, even when the beach was calling my name.
We’re just out there living life with all that entails anywhere else… work deadlines, medical appointments, laundry days, grocery runs, and all. You’re managing all of that plus navigating unknown public transportation, translating signs and menus, maybe trying to get by on a few mispronounced words and a smile.
Maybe that’s why I’ve long considered myself a professional juggler. For nearly 20 years, I’ve worked remotely in various roles: full-time employee, freelancer, consultant—you name it. Some seasons have been smoother than others, but through trial and error, I’ve discovered a few strategies to stay productive while making the most of my surroundings.
Recommended reading: A Traveler’s Guide to Staying Connected: eSIMs, Tools, and Tips
For example, I’ve learned it’s best to tackle my work early in the day, before I head out to explore. Now, I have never considered myself a morning person. But it sucks to have work hanging over your head while you’re trying to enjoy a new place, too.
Getting work out of the way before fun time not only makes the rest of the day feel like a reward, but also ensures I don’t fall behind on deadlines if I end up chasing a sunset (or missing a bus, breaking a leg, getting robbed… what have you).
The nomadic lifestyle offers incredible freedom, but it also comes with responsibility. Striking that balance takes effort, and a healthy dose of self-discipline. Over the years, I’ve found a few things that work for me—and hope at least a few of them are useful for you, too.